Visa Credit Cards | Scotiabank Canada (2024)

FAQs

What is the most widely accepted credit card in Canada? ›

According to travel experts Frommer's, Visa® and Mastercard® are the most widely accepted, followed by American Express.

If you're going to use a credit card in Canada, Visa and Mastercard are your surest bets. You should also make sure your card has no foreign transaction fees so you don't pay extra. With such a card on your side, you'll be able to save up to 3% on all purchases processed abroad.

Both are widely accepted

Visa and Mastercard are both widely accepted at Canadian retailers, with a few exceptions. Costco, for example, doesn't accept Visa in stores (however, you can use Visa at Costco.ca).

You can use your Canadian credit card to cover your expenses, but it'll cost you. A U.S. currency credit card may save you money. Since your purchases and payments are made entirely in U.S. dollars, you don't have to worry about currency exchange fees.

Can I use my American Visa credit or debit card abroad? You can use your U.S. Visa card abroad to make purchases or withdraw cash. To withdraw cash from an ATM, you'll need to know your four digit PIN number.

Where can I use Visa Debit? Visa Debit is accepted online and in mobile apps, over the phone, and by mail at participating merchants in Canada. Visa Debit is accepted by US and International online, in mobile apps, telephone, and mail order retailers that accept Visa.

The Canada Visitor Visa is a Multiple entry visa for tourism, business visits, or visiting family and friends. This travel document is valid for 10 years after issued, and you can stay in Canada for up to 180 days per entry. It is available for those who cannot apply online for the eTA to visit the country.

Can I get a credit card as a tourist in Canada? ›

Whether you're visiting family, going on a business trip, or visiting a vacation property, you may want to have a Canadian-based account and credit card. There is good news on both fronts! Both non-residents and non-citizens can indeed get credit cards.

Costco accepts Mastercard in store at Costco Warehouses and at Costco Gas Stations. Online at Costco.ca, Visa is also accepted, as is Mastercard. Costco also has two branded credit cards that can be used in-store: The CIBC Costco Mastercard and the CIBC Costco World Mastercard.

Most international merchants' card terminals are compatible with Visa and Mastercard, but, as mentioned before, American Express and Discover can prove more difficult. To avoid a hassle, carry some cash in case you encounter a merchant unwilling to accept a credit card.

The highest level of credit card in the Visa network, Visa Infinite cards offer more benefits than Visa Signature and Visa Traditional cards.

Carry at least two cards on your trip to Canada, preferably connected with Visa or Mastercard. If you just take an American Express card, you won't get to use it in many places. Think no foreign transaction fees.

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit card issuers worldwide. While American Express and Discover can come in handy in many situations, you may want to bring a backup Visa or Mastercard while traveling abroad, just in case.

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards, as both types can be used at 100+ million locations in 200+ countries and territories. Mastercard is accepted in more countries than Visa, yet roughly 20 million more merchants worldwide take Visa.

Some millionaires may opt for cards that offer a combination of premium benefits, rewards, and exclusive perks. The most exclusive credit card in Canada is widely considered to be the American Express Centurion Black Card. It is available by invitation only.